Vihtavuori N160, Vihtavuori N160 is one of the most respected rifle powders in the world, known for its consistency, clean burn characteristics, and reliability across a wide range of long-range and hunting cartridges. Manufactured in Finland, Vihtavuori powders have earned a global reputation among precision shooters, competitive marksmen, and hunters who demand stable performance in diverse weather conditions.
What Is Vihtavuori N160?
Vihtavuori N160 is a slow-burning, single-base extruded rifle powder. It is engineered for cartridges with larger case capacities and heavier bullet weights, making it especially popular in magnum and long-range calibers. Shooters appreciate N160 for its predictable pressure curves and repeatable accuracy from batch to batch.
Key Characteristics of Vihtavuori N160
1. Slow-Burning Rate
N160’s burn rate makes it ideal for high-volume cases where a slower ignition cycle helps generate stable velocities. It is frequently compared with powders like Hodgdon H4350 or Alliant RL-19 in terms of performance class.
2. Excellent Temperature Stability
One of the standout features of Vihtavuori powders is their ability to perform consistently across varying climates. Whether used in cold northern winters or warm summer hunts, Vihtavuori N160 maintains reliable burn properties and predictable velocities.
3. Clean Burning Formula
N160 is known for producing minimal residue, which means:
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Less fouling
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Easier barrel maintenance
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Improved long-term rifle longevity
This clean burn characteristic is especially valued by precision shooters who fire high round counts.
4. Consistent Metering
Because it is an extruded stick powder, some users expect metering challenges. However, N160’s cut and size make it relatively easy to meter in most modern powder measures, especially when using equipment designed for extruded grains.
Popular Cartridges for Vihtavuori N160
Reloaders commonly use Vihtavuori N160 in the following calibers (always adhering to official load data and safety practices):
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.30-06 Springfield
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7mm Remington Magnum
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6.5×55 Swedish
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.270 Winchester
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.300 Winchester Magnum
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.25-06 Remington
Its performance shines when paired with medium to heavy bullet weights, offering stable ballistic output and impressive downrange consistency.
Why Shooters Choose Vihtavuori N160
Precision and Accuracy
Long-range shooters depend on powders that deliver minimal velocity deviation shot to shot. N160 is specifically engineered to meet this demand, making it a top choice for marksmen pursuing extreme consistency.
High Quality Control
Vihtavuori’s manufacturing process is known for tight quality standards, which translates to:
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Minimal lot-to-lot variation
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Reliable ignition
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Enhanced safety margins within published load data
Trusted Worldwide
Decades of field use and testing have made N160 a trusted powder for hunting, competition, and precision target shooting across Europe and North America.
Final Thoughts
Vihtavuori N160 stands out as a premium rifle powder for reloaders seeking accuracy, cleanliness, and dependable performance. Whether you’re fine-tuning a long-range hunting load or striving for perfect shot groups at the range, N160’s temperature stability and high manufacturing quality make it a leading choice in the reloading community.
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